Discover the Best Cruise Ship Travel Hacks for an Unforgettable Voyage
Cruising is a popular way to explore the world but it can also be expensive and overwhelming. That's why many seasoned cruisers have developed travel hacks to make the most of their voyages.
Here are some of the best cruise ship travel hacks straight from regular passengers who have mastered the art of cruising.
Book Early And Save Big
Booking your next cruise while still on board your current one can bring numerous benefits. Not only can you take advantage of exclusive discounts, but some cruise lines offer onboard credits of up to $100 for future bookings made on board.
This means you can secure your next voyage while saving money and getting extra perks.
Make Like Columbus And Explore
DIY ideas for saving money on travel include independently touring offshore destinations, renting a boat and exploring on your own, and opting for more adventurous and off-the-beaten-path experiences that don't require expensive tours or guides.
These options allow for a more unique and personalized travel experience while also cutting costs.
Book Any Shore Excursions For A Discount
Booking shore excursions through your cruise line offers the convenience of having all arrangements made for you and the assurance of a quality experience. Look for sales or package deals to save money.
However, these may have limited availability, so book early. Consider booking through a third-party vendor for more options and potentially lower prices.
Cruise Social Media And Join Groups
Potential cruise ship passengers can benefit from joining social media groups about cruising on ships, particularly on Facebook and Instagram.
These groups provide a platform to connect with fellow travelers, share tips and advice, and learn about cruise line promotions and discounts. They can also help to build excitement and anticipation for upcoming trips.
Find Packages For Food And Drinks
Cruise ship passengers can save money on drinks and food by seeking out special packages offering deals. Most cruise lines offer packages for unlimited drinks or specialty dining. They can be purchased before boarding or on the ship.
Be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully and calculate whether the package will be worth the cost.
Cancel Anytime...Almost
If you need to cancel pre-purchased items or packages on a cruise ship due to a change in prices or a change of heart, check the fine print to ensure there are no penalties.
It's important to know your rights as a consumer, and you should be able to cancel without any repercussions.
Fly Before You Cruise
Booking flights before a cruise has advantages over booking on the same day, including more affordable prices, greater flexibility in scheduling, and reduced risk of missed or delayed flights.
This allows travelers to enjoy their trip without the stress of rushing to catch a flight. Ships will not wait because your flight was delayed or canceled.
Carry On
When you are preparing a carry-on bag for a cruise, it should be kept in mind that luggage delivery to cabins may take a while.
Pack essential items like medicine, spare clothes, and important documents to avoid inconvenience. Pack efficiently. Try using packing cubes or compression bags to better and properly maximize space.
Stay 100% Wrinkle Free
Packing a wrinkle releaser can be a game-changer when traveling on a cruise. It allows you to quickly and easily eliminate wrinkles from your clothing without needing an iron or ship laundry machine.
Adding this and maybe a Tide laundry pen saves time and money while keeping you looking sharp and presentable on your trip.
Magnetic Hooks For Extra Storage
Traveling with magnetic hooks and clips can be a smart move on a cruise. Most cruise ship walls are magnetic, making it easy to create extra storage space for hats, towels, and other items.
These hooks and clips can be an excellent solution for keeping your cabin organized and clutter-free.
Before Boarding, Stop At The Grocery Store
Before embarking on a cruise, stocking up on bottled water and soft drinks is a good idea. Some cruise line companies allow passengers to bring these items on board.
By purchasing them at a grocery store before the cruise, you can save money and ensure that you have the drinks you prefer readily available during your trip.
Arrive Late For Check-In
Arriving late to board your cruise can actually have its advantages. Most people arrive early, causing long lines and unnecessary waiting around.
Arriving just 30 minutes before departure can allow you to bypass the crowds and board quickly and efficiently without the added stress and frustration of waiting in line.
Surf The Ship's Internet
Many cruise ships offer reasonable internet packages for passengers, which can save money compared to paying high roaming rates from phone companies.
With access to the ship's Wi-Fi, passengers can stay connected with loved ones and keep up with work without incurring expensive charges for data usage on their phones.
A Green Apple A Day...
Getting green apples from the buffet lines can help alleviate seasickness on a cruise. Grabbing a couple and keeping them in your cabin can be a cheaper alternative to medications and pills.
Green apples contain natural enzymes that can soothe an upset stomach, making them a convenient and effective remedy.
Seek Out Departure-Day Sales
There are plenty of cruise ship companies that offer discounted shopping, dining, and internet packages to passengers on the first day of the voyage.
This is a great opportunity to take advantage of these deals and save some money on your trip. Make sure to keep an eye out for these packages and enjoy the perks they offer.
Leftovers And Last-Day Deals
Toward the end of a cruise, some ship shops offer discounted prices on souvenirs and T-shirts, sometimes as low as $10. However, these items may not match the quality of regular merchandise found in the boutiques.
If you're looking for a bargain, keep an eye out for these deals, but don't expect high-end products.
Pack Your Items In Cubes
Passengers should pack their items in cubes as it saves space and assists with the typical overpacking of cruise ship passengers.
Packing cubes make it easy to organize clothes and accessories, compressing them into a smaller space and making it simpler to find what you need. This ensures that you have everything you need without overloading your luggage.
Don't Be Shy And Speak Up
Passengers do not have to accept the options offered on cruise menus. Many cruises have alternative choices available, so don't be afraid to ask.
Most companies are fully accommodating and will work with you to ensure you have the dining experience you desire. Just speak up and ask for what you want.
Map It Out
Cruise ship passengers should download maps with free onboard WiFi rather than incurring charges with GPS apps.
This can save money and also allow passengers to access maps and directions without worrying about signal strength. Take advantage of the free WiFi to stay connected and navigate the ship with ease.
Kids Are Free
Many cruise ship companies offer discounts or free promotions for kids' activities, which not only keeps the children entertained but also eliminates the need for parental supervision during adult activities.
It allows parents to relax and enjoy their own time while their children are having fun and doing age-appropriate activities.
Kids Can Carry-On Too
Packing kids' gadgets, toys, and snacks in their carry-on backpacks is a smart idea. Remember that most companies allow children to have carry-ons too. This will keep their essentials together and prevent exceeding luggage limits.
It will also keep kids entertained during the trip. So, don't forget to pack their backpacks with their favorite items for a hassle-free journey.
Drive Yourself To The Cruise Port
Driving to the cruise port may save money, depending on the distance. Some flights can be as expensive as the scheduled cruise, making this a more cost-effective option.
So, it may be worth considering the distance and the cost of travel before deciding to fly or drive to the cruise port.
Park It And Cruise It
Many cruise port cities have hotels with "Park and Cruise" options, which allow passengers to park their cars at the hotel and take a shuttle to the port. Very similar to Park 'N Fly at airports, this option can save time and money, as parking at the port can be expensive.
Staying at a hotel the night before is also a convenient option for those who have early morning departures.
Crew Members Are Great Tour Guides
There might not be a better person to seek out the best places to tour and sightsee offshore during a cruise than its crew members.
They often have first-hand knowledge of the ports and can provide insider tips on the best attractions, restaurants, and local experiences to make the most of your time ashore.
Dock And Eat Lunch Offshore
Eating lunches and meals in port can be a cost-effective option during cruises. Port restaurants offer a wider range of food choices, and many cruises serve smaller portions during lunchtime.
This can save you money while also allowing you to enjoy the local cuisine and atmosphere. The surrounding area may have tourist shops with cheaper trinkets than the ship.
Pack An Over The Door Shoe Organizer
For those who need to bring multiple pairs of shoes on a trip, packing an over-the-door shoe organizer can be a game-changer. It certainly would not hinder the voyage.
It maximizes space in the cabin and keeps shoes organized and easily accessible. It's a simple yet effective solution for those with limited storage options.
A USB Hub Is A Must
A USB hub is an essential item for a cruise, as many cabins have limited USB ports and inconveniently located power outlets. It allows for easy charging of multiple devices at once, including smartphones, tablets, and cameras.
This ensures all your electronics stay charged and ready for use throughout the trip.
If Possible, Travel With Dish Soap
Cruise ship passengers should pack dish soap in a toiletry bag to clean cups, utensils, and baby bottles. This is because not all cruise ships provide dish soap in the cabins. Also, it might have a future purpose for cleaning items that are not dishwasher safe.
It's a simple and convenient way to ensure cleanliness during your trip.
Reusable Items Can Save Money And Time
When packing for a cruise, it's a good idea to bring reusable items such as straws, cups, and bottles to reduce plastic waste. However, be sure to check airport and ship regulations before traveling, as some items may not be allowed.
Bringing your own reusable items can help you have a more eco-friendly and sustainable trip.
Load Up With $2 Bills For Tips
It's a good idea to bring some $2 bills when cruising to give as tips to servers and crew members on board and offshore.
These bills are considered a novelty and can be a unique way to show appreciation. Just make sure to exchange for enough local currency when visiting ports of call.
